Maximising business potential with cloud technology

In an era where innovation defines success, cloud technology is empowering businesses to scale and compete effectively, JUSTICE OKAMGBA writes

Many years ago, businesses had to invest in expensive servers, IT infrastructure, and maintenance costs to store data and run applications.

However, with cloud technology, many businesses can now easily access these resources on demand without the burden of owning or managing physical infrastructure.

The implication is that this allows businesses to scale their operations efficiently, paying only for the computing power and storage they use—this is what we call cloud technology or cloud computing.

A practical example of how cloud technology can help businesses is in the retail industry, where e-commerce companies rely on cloud platforms to manage inventory, process transactions, and enhance customer experiences.

For instance, a Nigerian online fashion retailer experiencing rapid growth might struggle with managing inventory across multiple locations, handling customer orders efficiently, and analysing sales data.

By adopting a cloud-based enterprise resource planning system, the retailer can automate inventory tracking, synchronise stock levels across different warehouses, and reduce the risk of overselling or stock shortages.

“For Nigerian businesses, the path to sustainable growth lies in digital transformation, with cloud-based technologies serving as a key enabler,” Country Head of Zoho Nigeria, Kehinde Ogundare, said in an email to The PUNCH.

Nigeria’s business landscape is vibrant, with a growing middle class and an increasingly tech-savvy population. However, many businesses still rely on manual processes that hinder scalability and efficiency.

According to Ogundare, traditional growth models lack the agility required in today’s fast-evolving market.

He noted, “Manual processes lead to inefficiencies, limited data insights hinder informed decision-making, and restricted IT resources stifle innovation.

“To overcome these hurdles, businesses must adopt digital tools that streamline operations, automate workflows, and provide actionable insights.”

Digital transformation is not merely about adopting new technology but about enabling businesses to scale efficiently. In an era where competition is fierce, businesses that fail to leverage digital tools risk falling behind.

“Google’s innovative approach to machine learning, analytics, big data, and containerisation sets it apart,” says founder of Rlogucal Techsoft, Rahul Panchal. “Google Cloud operates on the same infrastructure used by YouTube, Google Search, and Gmail, ensuring speed and reliability.”

However, he pointed out a key drawback: “One significant limitation of Google Cloud is that it provides fewer features than some competitors. Additionally, it has fewer data centres globally compared to other leading cloud providers.”

One of the most significant advantages of cloud technology is the ability to integrate various business tools into a unified ecosystem. This allows companies to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and make data-driven decisions faster.

Financial analyst Sarah Ward underscored the importance of cost management in cloud adoption.

“Deploying a multi-cloud architecture, including Google Cloud, can help businesses manage expenses more effectively,” she wrote on Quora. “Platforms like Binadox provide a clear view of cloud spending, helping companies generate detailed reports that facilitate smarter financial decisions.”

Further, artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in cloud-based solutions, enhancing customer interactions and operational efficiency. AI-powered insights help businesses personalise services, predict market trends, and strengthen customer relationships.

Ogundare noted that AI-driven contextual intelligence can significantly improve business performance.

“AI not only automates routine tasks but also provides businesses with predictive analytics that support strategic decision-making,” he said.

Systems and DevOps Engineer Makarov Vladimir highlighted specific AI-driven features of Google Cloud that make it appealing to businesses.

“If you’re into data science and analytics, Google Cloud offers everything you need to accomplish your job efficiently,” he said. “Its database services, from Dataproc to Data Studio, are incredibly powerful.”

However, he also pointed out challenges with Google Cloud’s monitoring and logging systems.

“Google acquired Stackdriver for monitoring, but it still operates as a standalone product, which makes it difficult to integrate seamlessly with other services,” he explained.

“Every time you try to monitor a resource, it redirects you to a separate window, making it a frustrating experience.”

While cloud technology offers immense benefits, its effectiveness depends on how well businesses integrate it into their operations. A holistic approach ensures that all digital tools work together for seamless performance.

Ogundare emphasised the need for businesses to optimise their entire technology stack.

“Investing in cloud technology isn’t just about using one or two digital tools—it’s about ensuring that all systems, from customer relationship management to financial tracking, are interconnected for maximum efficiency,” he said.

As more Nigerian businesses embrace cloud technology, the benefits are becoming increasingly evident.

Cloud computing is not just about cost savings—it is a catalyst for business expansion, improved customer experiences, and long-term sustainability.

Industry experts agree that the future of business lies in the cloud.

Ogundare stated, “Cloud technology is no longer optional—it is essential for businesses looking to scale and compete globally. By leveraging cloud solutions, Nigerian businesses can unlock their full potential and drive the country’s digital transformation.”

While challenges such as infrastructure limitations and integration issues remain, experts say the overall outlook for cloud adoption in Nigeria is positive.

As businesses continue to explore cloud-based solutions, the shift toward a more digital, data-driven economy is inevitable.

In the coming years, companies that successfully integrate cloud technology into their operations will gain a competitive edge, ensuring long-term growth and resilience in an increasingly digital world.